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Step into the recording studio with country artist Robbie Johnson as he reveals the creative journey behind his new single "You Pick the Flowers." In this candid conversation, Robbie shares how the song reimagines his own love story, admitting he never properly proposed to his wife and is now "rewriting my story to make it beautiful." This vulnerability sets the tone for a fascinating exploration of modern country music production.

The episode offers rare technical insights as Robbie describes his collaborative process with producer Danny, who plays nearly every instrument on his tracks and works with Nashville's biggest names. Music enthusiasts will appreciate the detailed discussion of studio equipment, from the coveted Neumann 269 microphone to the specialized rooms for B3 organs with Leslie cabinets. Robbie's meticulous approach to editing reveals how sometimes the most magical musical moments happen after the official recording ends.

Laughter erupts when Robbie shares the "lettuce incident" - a hilariously disputed story about how he met his wife while working at Burger King. These personal moments showcase the authentic personalities behind the music, reminding us that even accomplished artists have relatable life experiences that often inspire their songwriting.

The conversation shifts to industry news covering everything from the upcoming AMCs to Luke Bryan's viral dance moment after slipping during a concert. Jay and Tiffany engage listeners with a lively discussion about the best country vocal intros of all time, featuring contributions ranging from classics like George Strait's "Amarillo by Morning" to contemporary hits. Whether you're a dedicated country music fan or simply curious about the creative process behind hit songs, this episode delivers both entertainment and insider knowledge about the art and business of country music.

Ready to discover your next favorite country song? Listen now and don't forget to stream, share, and request the music you love – as Robbie reminds us, "You guys are the true rock stars that make it happen."

Links

• Jay Franze: https://JayFranze.com
• Virtually You: https://www.virtuallyyouva.com/
• Robby Johnson: https://www.robby-johnson.com/

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What does it really take to chase country music dreams while keeping your life in balance? In this heartfelt conversation with rising country artist Trey Calloway, we pull back the curtain on the realities of the Nashville music scene and the personal sacrifices that come with pursuing passion.

Trey opens up about his latest single "She Don't Break It," co-written with legendary songwriter Terry McBride (known for hits with Brooks & Dunn and George Strait) and produced by Brandon Hood, whom Trey describes as "Nashville's best kept secret." The song represents Trey's commitment to authentic country music that connects immediately with audiences—"By the second or third chorus, they're singing along with it," he shares.

The most compelling moments come when Trey reveals the personal challenges of his musical journey. Unlike many artists who move to Nashville in their youth, Trey arrived in his late twenties—"past the ego stuff, past the drinking and partying." Now he navigates a complex life triangle between Nashville (where he works), South Carolina (where his wife lives), and his hometown (where his son lives). "It's been tough," he admits, "but we're closer than we've ever been."

With refreshing honesty, Trey discusses the balance between ambitious dreams and practical planning: "If I don't make it in the music business, I'm going to start a restaurant down at the beach." His journey reminds us that behind every song on the radio is a real person making real sacrifices, finding joy in the creative process, and holding onto what matters most along the way.

Whether you're a country music fan or simply appreciate stories of passion and perseverance, Trey's insights offer a genuine glimpse into the heart of a working musician chasing dreams while keeping his feet firmly planted on the ground. Listen now and discover why authentic storytelling remains at the core of great country music.

Links

• Jay Franze: https://JayFranze.com
• Virtually You: https://www.virtuallyyouva.com/
• Trey Calloway: https://treycallowaymusic.com/
• Jay Franze, Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jayfranze/

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What happens when a talented songwriter develops their craft far from the industry spotlight? Dani Bacon brings us the answer from rural Washington, where she's forged a musical identity that transcends easy categorization.

Dani's story begins with family singing in church and early fascination with the Dixie Chicks, but quickly develops into something uniquely her own. Despite living eight hours from the nearest major music scene in Seattle, she's crafted a sound that blends country storytelling traditions with Americana sensibilities, creating music that feels both familiar and refreshingly authentic.

The conversation takes us behind the curtain of independent music production as Dani shares her studio experiences with producer Kyler at Den Studios in Boise. Unlike the assembly-line approach of major Nashville studios, Dani enjoyed days of focused, collaborative creation resulting in music that reflects her artistic vision rather than commercial formulas. We're treated to fascinating insights about how modern artists can build meaningful industry connections despite geographic isolation—like how Dani discovered fiddle virtuoso Chelsea Parker through social media and eventually brought her into recording sessions.

Throughout our discussion, Dani's refreshing perspective on the advantages of distance from industry hubs emerges. "I probably wouldn't fit in the Nashville box anyway," she reflects, acknowledging how her remote location has preserved her authentic voice while discussing songs like "Northern Pines" that explore the tension between dream-chasing and rootedness.

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• Jay Franze: https://JayFranze.com

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Ever wonder why certain country songs defy all odds and become massive hits? Jay and Tiffany take you behind the scenes of 14 unlikely country smashes that broke all the conventional rules - from The Band Perry's morbid masterpiece "If I Die Young" to the surprising revelation that a disco song about a man transforming into a duck once topped country radio charts!

The conversation flows naturally through breaking country music news, where Thomas Rhett celebrates selling out Boston's iconic Fenway Park - a meaningful milestone for the artist in the city that helped launch his career. Meanwhile, Lainey Wilson fights back tears as the Country Music Hall of Fame unveils an exhibit dedicated to her journey, and AI technology creates convincing fake wedding photos of her and her fiancé that fooled fans across social media.

The heart of the episode comes when listeners share the country songs that instantly transport them back to specific life moments. From "Amarillo by Morning" evoking early rodeo mornings with Dad to "Friends in Low Places" becoming a college party anthem, these musical time machines connect us across generations and experiences. Each story reveals how deeply country music weaves itself into the fabric of our most cherished memories.

Jay and Tiffany round out the show with current chart analysis, spotlighting rising star Bailey Zimmerman's climb up the charts with "Backup Plan" and newcomer Ella Langley claiming the #1 spot with "Weren't for the Wind." Their artist spotlight on Irene Kelley celebrates her understated production style and emotionally resonant vocals that have stood the test of time.

What country song takes you back to a specific moment? Share your musical memories with us and join the conversation at jayfanze.com!

Links

• Jay Franze: https://JayFranze.com
• Virtually You: https://www.virtuallyyouva.com/

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Jason Chapin takes us behind the curtain of his father's most enduring musical legacy. As the 50th anniversary of "Cats in the Cradle" approaches, Jason reveals the surprising true origins of the iconic song – a poem written by his mother Sandy about the distant relationship she observed between her first husband and his father.

What began as an observation of family dysfunction would eventually become Harry Chapin's signature hit, though not without skepticism. "My mother told my father there's no way this is gonna be a single," Jason shares. "Back then, hit songs were not about fathers and sons." Against all expectations, the song climbed to number one, cementing its place in music history.

The discussion weaves through Harry's multifaceted career, from his early days making Oscar-nominated documentaries to his late-blooming music career at age 30. Jason offers fascinating glimpses into his father's creative process, his relentless work ethic that produced 11 albums in just 10 years, and his equal dedication to humanitarian causes. We learn how Harry co-founded Why Hunger in 1975, performed approximately 100 benefit concerts annually, and became such a persistent presence lobbying Congress that lawmakers would try to avoid him – leading Harry to famously corner them in Capitol Building restrooms.

This episode paints a portrait of an artist deeply committed not just to his craft, but to making tangible change in the world. Jason explains how his father's legacy continues through the new documentary "Harry Chapin: Cats in the Cradle 50th Anniversary," featuring interviews with Billy Joel, Judy Collins, Whitfield Crane from Ugly Kid Joe, and many others who've been touched by his father's music.

Whether you're a longtime fan of Harry Chapin or discovering his work for the first time, this conversation offers valuable perspective on how one song can transcend generations, and how an artist's impact can extend far beyond their music. As Harry's credo reminds us: "When in doubt, do something."

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• Jay Franze: https://JayFranze.com

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Meet MacKenzie Lee, a Boston-based singer-songwriter who's crafting a unique musical identity she calls "dark pop." Stepping into our studio with the confidence of someone who's found her authentic voice, Mackenzie shares the winding path that led her from childhood singing to college acapella performances and finally to her current work with Red 13 Records.

What makes MacKenzie's approach fascinating is her refusal to be boxed into conventional genres. Drawing inspiration from artists like Billie Eilish and Lana Del Rey, she's equally influenced by comedic musicians such as Bo Burnham and The Lonely Island—creative minds who blend impressive musical ability with clever, thought-provoking content. This unexpected combination hints at an artist determined to create music that's both emotionally resonant and intellectually engaging.

The conversation takes us through Mackenzie's formative experiences, including how her acapella background trained her ear to deconstruct songs into their component parts. "You really learn to appreciate every single piece that goes into a song," she explains, describing how this shapes both her listening habits and creative process today. We also discover the emotional significance behind the grand piano visible during our interview—a treasured inheritance from her grandmother, the only other musician in her family.

After discussing Mackenzie's debut single "Bad Taste on Love" and her upcoming release "The Ghost of Us," we shift to the latest country music news, covering artists like Chris Stapleton and Miranda Lambert supporting Texas flood victims. The episode culminates in a spirited debate about the greatest vocal collaborations of all time, with listeners passionately defending their favorites from Kenny Rogers and Dolly Parton to modern pairings like Jason Aldean and Carrie Underwood.

Links

• Jay Franze: https://JayFranze.com
• Virtually You: https://www.virtuallyyouva.com/

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What makes a country music legend truly important? Is it chart success, cultural impact, or lasting influence? Jay Franze and Tiffany Mason tackle these questions head-on while reviewing a controversial list of "The 25 Most Important Women in Country Music" that has them both fired up from the start.

The hosts share their predictions before diving into the rankings, confidently naming Dolly Parton and Reba McEntire as the obvious choices for the top spots. What follows is a passionate dissection of the list that places newer artists higher than established legends, sparking genuine outrage when they discover Dolly Parton ranks only seventh while Carrie Underwood claims the number one position.

"Where's her amusement park? Where's her giving back kids books that can't afford books? Where's her charity programs?" Tiffany questions, highlighting how the list seems to prioritize recent commercial success over decades of cultural impact and philanthropy. The conversation reveals a deeper issue about how female artists are evaluated in country music and the often arbitrary nature of industry rankings.

Between their good-natured banter, the hosts also cover breaking news from Nashville, including Morgan Wallen's youth charity work, an exciting potential Miranda Lambert and Chris Stapleton collaboration, and Australia's growing country music scene. They wrap up with listener submissions about the most underrated female vocalists, creating a show that celebrates women in country music while questioning who gets to determine their "importance."

Links

• Jay Franze: https://JayFranze.com
• Virtually You: https://www.virtuallyyouva.com/

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Uncovering the musical evolution of Gradients, this episode takes listeners behind the curtain with a Minnesota rock band crafting their sound somewhere in the gradient between hard rock, alternative, and metal. The conversation reveals how a college talent show in 2019 sparked what would become a serious musical endeavor, bringing together musicians with surprisingly diverse influences.

What makes Gradients fascinating is their authentic approach to creating music. Three of the members hold audio production degrees and live together, allowing for a constant creative environment where songs emerge organically—sometimes from structured writing sessions, other times from spontaneous late-night jams. The band discusses how their influences range from the Beatles and 70s hard rock to more modern acts like Royal Blood and Arctic Monkeys, creating a unique sonic fingerprint that defies easy categorization.

The episode dives deep into their recording process, with the band handling all aspects of production themselves using Logic Pro and carefully planned microphone techniques. We learn how they've evolved from quick demo recordings to more sophisticated production approaches, while maintaining the raw energy that defines their sound. Drummer Trevor, who joined more recently, shares his perspective on learning songs that were already recorded and how his punk-influenced style complements the band's sound.

Throughout the conversation runs a thread of friendship and camaraderie—from elaborate pranks (including fully carpeting a bandmate's bathroom) to their shared commitment to high-energy live performances. The band emphasizes how showmanship matters as much as technical skill, with the goal of creating memorable experiences for audiences. With upcoming performances at the Red Carpet in St. Cloud and a new album "Come What May," Gradients represents what happens when musical passion meets technical skill and genuine friendship.

Want to experience Gradients for yourself? Follow them on social media to catch their upcoming shows and hear their latest releases. Your next favorite rock band might be just a concert away!

Links

• Jay Franze: https://JayFranze.com
• Gradience: https://gradiencerock.wixsite.com/my-site

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